Jenna's Final Words of Wisdom

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So for my last blog as a Freshman 15, I thought I would try and tell you guys some of the key points I've learned from the past year. I'm going to try and sum it all up in about 400 words so... we'll see how this goes.

Go to your professor's office hours! Unlike in high school, office hours are really the only way to get to know your professor, especially when you're in a lecture class with 299 other students. By developing a relationship, they mark you higher on participation and you become more than just a number. Then, when you need a recommendation, they actually have stuff to write about!

Even if your first semester isn't your favorite time, stick out the year. I've talked to a lot of friends both from college and high school and by Christmas break, a lot of them hated their school. However, all of them returned for second semester and now literally ALL of them cannot wait to go back. It's hard first semester because you feel like your friends aren't as close with you as the ones back home, but when you stick it out for second semester you allow your new friendships to develop more and pretty soon your friends are just as close with you at college as the ones back home.

Not every guy in college just wants sex. If you are a freshman and a senior is hitting you on at a party, I'd keep your guard up because his intentions may not be the best. That being said, I've seen a lot of relationships that have actually been really successful. Just don't go into college looking for a serious relationship, it'll happen when it's supposed to.

Talk about your dreams with whoever is willing to listen. Networking is becoming ever more important in finding a career - so talk to people! You never know who is going to have a connection to someone in your field. One of my professors, because he knew I was interested in empowering women in developing countries, started talking to me about an internship in India working with women and microfinance. Turns out he runs a network of nonprofits and has a big say in who their interns are. A recommendation from him and I'm in! In addition, a family friend knew I was in D.C. and helped me land an internship for the summer that will hopefully transition to an internship on the hill in the fall. Connections are everywhere, so use them!

There are a lot of differences between the east and west coast, but that doesn't mean you can't make the jump. There are a lot more people and everything's close together on the east coast. The differences make college even more exciting! It makes school feel like a constant adventure because you never know what's next. The biggest problem I had with making the jump is dating. Guys out east are way more metro than guys in the west (sorry boys). Out west I'm considered girly, but out east I'm one of the bros. Oh well!